Table of Contents for this study abroad blog
How To Overcome Homesickeness for Indian Students – The WHY
Whether it be a freshman studying Math in Harvard, or a post-graduate doing her master’s in psychology, everyone feels the effect of being tens of thousands of miles from home. That sudden longing for the familiarity of your own home while you’re surrounded unfamiliar gadgets in an unfeeling apartment is a universal feeling.
The American Psychology Association defines homesickness as a feeling of intense sadness and misery caused by absence from one’s home or native land. Tens of thousands of students each year are homesick, and it is a major cause of depression disrupting and inflicting misery on young minds.
In this blog, we will go over How to Overcome Homesickness for Indian Students with some genuine tips… See the blog till the end!
A survey once concluded that around 50 percent of international students are chronically homesick. It is a growing problem and can be a major hurdle to your education. That’s why we at AFBF have compiled together some tips and helpful messages to combat this feeling. But always remember to not feel ashamed to seek professional help if it interferes with your life and causes you pain and grief.
How to Identify Homesickness in International Students
- Persistent Feelings of Sadness and Loneliness: Students may frequently feel a deep sense of sadness and loneliness, constantly missing home and familiar people.
- Difficulty Concentrating on Studies: A noticeable decline in academic performance or inability to focus on studies can signal homesickness.
- Loss of Interest in Social Activities: There may be a withdrawal from social interactions and reluctance to participate in activities or explore new surroundings.
- Changes in Eating and Sleeping Patterns: Significant alterations in eating habits or sleep patterns, such as loss of appetite or insomnia, can indicate homesickness.
- Physical Symptoms Without Medical Cause: Physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches without a clear medical reason might stem from emotional stress related to homesickness.
- Frequent Contact with Family and Friends Back Home: Excessive communication with loved ones back home, such as constant texting or video calls, can be a sign of struggling to adapt.
Reluctance to Engage with the New Culture: A lack of interest in engaging with the local culture or trying new experiences can reflect a longing to return home.
Regularly Socialize And Meet People
A good way to tackle any problem is to analyze its root cause. Most people feel homesick because they don’t receive the same amount of love as they did at home. The obvious solution is to meet with your friends and socialize frequently.
Homo Sapiens are social animals and no one dislikes talking to their close friends and having fun together. Organize get-togethers in your friend circle or join clubs to meet people who have the same hobbies and interests as you. Most colleges have plenty of clubs where you can make plenty of friends.
Be friendly and talk with the people around you. Maybe ask your roommate how his weekend went or ask the elderly woman who jogs around with her dog how her day went. People always like a friendly and fun person and you will never regret opening up to people!
Check out our blog on the Best Student Communities in the USA to branch out and start connecting with new and interesting people!
Join as many activities as you can
Keeping yourself occupied is one of the best ways of naturally helping you forget the concept of homesickness as it leaves you with no time to ponder about it. Plus, activities are a great way to broaden your social circle and some may even be useful for your CV, you don’t want to have wasted a year pondering over homesickness only to end up regretting it in the future.
You only have one chance in life to have such a wide breadth of opportunities and it is truly a privilege that many others around the world don’t even have to participate in. If you’re a fresher, this is your time to take advantage of the low workload you have!
How to Personalize Your Space
Organize the space you live in to better suit your needs. Give it a touch of your personality. You need to make it a happy and vibrant place! Decorate your room with knick-knacks and things from the place you grew up, which will make your room feel more like home. If you can, cover or paint your walls with your favorite colors and designs. It’ll be a fun activity! Keep a few of your favorite photographs on your bedside table or drawer so you don’t feel away from them. Make the place you live your new home, a place you love and can relax at.
How to Make A Consistent Schedule
Making a consistent schedule is the best way to distract oneself from homesickness if not every worry in your life. Make a weekly plan, not something too rigid, just something that you feel comfortable to follow.
The proverb “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise” may seem cringe-worthy and extremely old-fashioned, but wisdom doesn’t waver with time. Wise words remain wise till the dusk of humanity and this is no exception.
Have at least 8 hours of sleep and be well rested every day, so you can have a fresh attempt at life every day. Incorporate exercise and propel meals into your routine, which brings us to our next tip.
Engage In Physical Activity
Now I’m not saying lift weights at the gym 6 hours a day (I’ve never lifted any in my life) and work towards a shredded body like Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I am encouraging daily physical activity. A healthy body is as important as a healthy mind.
WHO recommends at least half an hour of activity every day for a healthy body, and that may be as simple as a walk in a park or an evening cycle ride through your city.
Engage in activities that you loved during your childhood, it may be martial starts or picking up football again. These will remind you of your childhood and will be extremely fun and fulfilling.
Explore The Local Culture
Many people shirk away from it, afraid to lose their own but simply does not happen. Think of all the places, food, and festivities you can enjoy of another country! The USA is especially rich and diverse. There are people from all around the world living over there so there is no shortage of people and traditions you can observe and enjoy.
Soak in all the flavors and tastes of the people around you. Engage in local sightseeing or go on treks in the countryside. You are bound to have fun!
And Finally, Keep In Touch With Your Family And Friends (Duh!)
This may seem obvious, but plenty of students just keep forgetting to call up their families. Different time zones also prove to be a challenge.
Have a specific time slot every day in which you check up on them.
Remember to talk and laugh with your friends too, even if it’s on a low-quality screen. Keeping contact is what matters.
What to do to Overcome Homesickness for Indian Students?
This is a short sweet summary of what to do if you feel homesick…
Homesickness can feel like a heavy anchor, but remember, you’re not just adrift. You’re at the helm of a fantastic voyage – college! Embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth.
Cultivate new friendships, personalize your space, and become an active participant in your new environment. Explore the vibrant local culture, discover hidden passions, and fuel your body and mind for success.
Yes, stay connected to loved ones back home, but also remember, you’re building a new support system here.
College is a time for self-discovery, and conquering homesickness is a victory that empowers you to embrace the adventure ahead.
So, step out, explore, connect, and thrive in this exciting new chapter of your life!
FAQs: How to Overcome Homesickness for Students
1. Q: I just arrived at college, and I miss my family and friends so much! What can I do?
A: Homesickness is totally normal! Here are some tips:
- Connect with others: Join clubs, attend social events, or talk to your roommate. You’ll be surprised how many others feel the same way.
- Bring a piece of home: Decorate your dorm room with photos, mementos, or even familiar scents from home.
- Stay in touch: Schedule regular calls or video chats with family and friends back home.
2. Q: I feel lonely even though I’m surrounded by people. What can I help me feel more connected?
A: Sometimes, being around people isn’t enough. Here are some ideas:
- Find your tribe: Look for clubs or activities that align with your interests. You’ll meet people who share your passions.
- Be open and friendly: Strike up conversations with classmates, neighbors, or anyone you meet.
- Reach out to a Resident Assistant (RA): They’re trained to help students adjust to college life, including homesickness.
3. Q: I’m worried about missing out on important events back home. What should I do?
A: Prioritize, but don’t isolate yourself.
- Talk to your family: Communicate your schedule and explain why you might miss certain events.
- Focus on building your new life: College is full of exciting opportunities too!
- Stay connected virtually: Watch live streams of important events or ask for updates from family and friends.
4. Q: My homesickness is getting worse. What if I can’t handle it?
A: Don’t hesitate to seek help!
- Talk to a counselor: Many colleges offer free counseling services specifically for students struggling with homesickness.
- Connect with a professor or advisor: They can offer a listening ear and practical advice.
- Remember, you’re not alone: Many students experience homesickness.
5. Q: Is there anything I can do to prepare for homesickness before I even leave for college?
A: Absolutely! Here are some proactive steps:
- Learn about the college: Familiarize yourself with the campus, student life, and surrounding community.
- Connect with future classmates online: Join social media groups or forums to get to know others before you arrive.
Pack a “comfort kit”: Include items from home that bring you joy and remind you of loved ones.
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In case you are in doubt about Can You Beat the High Cost of AP Exams?
Feel free to read this: Guide to Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th Grade
Hope your study abroad dreams get fulfilled and you stay connected with family for Indian students
